The Italian automaker says the redesigned Ferrari California is 66 pounds (30 kg) lighter than the current car in dealer showrooms. The weight reduction comes from “cutting-edge aluminum fabrication techniques and construction technologies” in the sports car’s chassis. Ferrari claims that structural integrity hasn’t been negatively affected from the weight reduction.

Horsepower and torque have both increased. The outgoing model makes 454 horsepower and 357 lb-ft of torque. The new car will increase those numbers by 36 and 15, respectively. Expect the new car to bring 490 horsepower and 372 lb-ft of torque to dealer showrooms when it goes on sale. The 4.3-liter V-8’s power increases come from redesigned exhaust manifolds and new software for the engine computer. Not only is peak torque up, but the curve has been modified for more power at all rpms.

Ferrari claims the power increase and weight reduction will enable the Italian stallion to hit 60 mph (0-100 km/h) in 3.8 seconds – a conservative estimate considering the last Ferrari California we tested did 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds and cleared the quarter-mile in 11.9 seconds at 117.4 mph.

An optional Handling Speciale package is available. The Handling Speciale package uses Magnetorheological dampers (that respond 50 percent faster thanks to Ferrari-specific software) and stiffer springs to help minimize body roll and make the car more responsive to driver inputs. Ferrari claims the Handling Speciale package gives the driver more precise control without sacrificing ride comfort. A new steering box with a 10 percent quicker steering ratio give the new Ferrari California a faster turn-in with smaller steering wheel angles.

Despite its expected performance bump, the automaker says the Ferrari California will retain its mission as a grand touring 2+2 with retractable hardtop. More color choices have been added to the color palette including two-tone paint options. the Ferrari Styling Centre also offers “modern re-interpretations of classic color schemes” for the most discerning customers. The new paints offer three-layer technology.

The Italian automaker will continue to offer the free seven-year standard maintenance program when the car goes on sale. Even though the new model is already in production, details on the Ferrari California’s on-sale dates haven’t been released. So far, Ferrari has only said that Europe will receive the first deliveries, but we’re hoping the North American market isn’t far behind.